Yakym Votes for a Strong National Defense

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) released a statement following the passage of the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

"The passage of the NDAA marks a vital step in ensuring the United States maintains the most capable and ready fighting force in the world," Rep. Yakym said. "Our highest responsibility is safeguarding this nation against all current and future threats. By codifying President Trump's executive orders, strengthening border security, and better equipping our servicemembers, this NDAA makes America stronger and more secure."

Background:

• Codifies President Trump's efforts to end left-wing ideology, wokeism, and DEI in the military and restores focus on lethality, meritocracy, and accountability.

• Fully funds and provides additional authorities to the Department of War to support DHS border security efforts.

• Carries out President Trump's efforts to improve the quality of life for our servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise and improved benefits for military families.

• Fundamentally reforms the Department of War acquisition process, codifying President Trump's EO and speeding the delivery of innovative new technologies to the warfighter.

• Authorizes full funding for President Trump's top priorities, including the Golden Dome, F-47 fighter aircraft, submarines, warships, and autonomous systems.

• Authorizes funds and creates new authorities to meet President Trump's goal of revitalizing the defense industrial base, growing defense manufacturing jobs in America, and onshoring our defense supply chains.

• Includes new authorities to support President Trump's effort to force our allies to pay more for their own defense.

• Authorizes important investments in emerging technologies to counter threats posed by China.

• Provides over $20 billion in savings, including $15 billion from DOGE-initiated reforms assumed in President Trump's budget request.

• Changes laws governing the hiring and firing of Department of War civilians to carry out President Trump's civil service reforms.

• Includes new authorities and funding to support President Trump's efforts to prepare our military for a potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific.

• Extends authorities President Trump uses to eliminate terrorists that threaten Americans.

• Codifies President Trump's EO to promote energy independence and utilize new nuclear power technologies.

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